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DRIVERS EDGE Coming to South Dakota June 13 15 2008

Young drivers to receive FREE accident avoidance training during the Drivers Edge 2008 National Tour.

(Sioux Falls, SD)  Car Crashes  the number one killer of teens in South Dakota and across the United States. In 2006 in South Dakota, 14-20 year olds made up approximately 10% of the drivers, but were involved in 21.7% of fatal and injury crashes according to the South Dakota Vehicle Motor Vehicle Crash Summary. Drivers under the age of 18 are also the ones most likely to be involved in car crashes according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

This summer, area teens will become better and safer drivers thanks to nationally recognized program that is coming to South Dakota. Drivers Edge, a non-profit organization, gives teen drivers in select U.S. cities free classroom and behind-the-wheel accident avoidance instruction. The course is taught by professional racecar drivers and performance driving instructors.

Driver's Edge will be in South Dakota on June 13- 15, 2008. Sessions will be held at the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds in Sioux Falls.

The program will be offered twice each day. Each session will educate approximately 100 students for a total of 600 students during the two day event. The students parents are encouraged to attend and observe as well.

The program includes the following elements:

Written tests to measure driving knowledge before and after completing the course.

Local law enforcement interaction, including impaired driving awareness and seat belt safety.

Proper car maintenance session.

Driver's Edge is offered at NO COST to students. Participants must possess a valid learner's permit or driver's license prior to the day of the event. Young drivers, aged 14-21, must register in advance for the program either by phone at 1-877-633-EDGE (3343) or online at www.driversedge.org. Registration opens April 14 at 6 pm.